Niall Collins
Ceist:1612. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development when applications will open for the Community Centre Investment Fund. [13003/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 21 March 2023
Ceisteanna (1612)
Freagraí scríofa
Community centres are the cornerstone of community life in towns, villages and parishes across the country. Since my appointment as Minister for Rural and Community Development, I have placed a key focus on the development of these important facilities.
In 2022, I launched the new Community Centres Investment Fund and there was huge demand for the scheme with over 1,000 applications received. All applications were subject to a competitive assessment following which I was pleased to announce €45.5m for 858 successful projects. These projects will be completed over the course of 2023 and 2024.
In addition to upgrading existing centres, I know that there are a number of areas that require funding to develop new community facilities. In this regard, I was delighted to secure €21m in Budget 2023 for a new round of the Community Centres Investment Fund which will be targeted specifically at new build community centres. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that details of the 2023 scheme are currently being developed and I hope to issue a call for applications in late March.
Separately, community centres can apply to the Community Support Fund which provides supports to small groups who are struggling with energy/running costs and for small capital works. Groups should contact their Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) for details of this fund.
I also expect to launch the CLÁR Programme in the coming weeks which provides funding for minor enhancement works to community centres.